The Role of Legally Available “Ergogenic” Nutritional Supplements in Exercise Performance: A Biochemical and Physiological Approach

Abstract

The “ergogenic” nutritional supplements are substances that supposedly improve the body’s work capacity and athletic performance. Dozens of “ergogenic” preparations are marketed today accompanied by nutrition and health claims. These products are commercially successful and consumed by athletes and exercisers. However, athletes who use supplements usually consume quantities much higher than those indicated, while a high supplement dosage does not necessarily leads to an increase of the athlete ́s performance. Overdose of supplements may cause multiple adverse effects in the body. The available literature is still lacking conclusive information, while there is a large heterogeneity in the reported scientific data. Moreover, evidence-based recommendations for ergogenic supplementation are lacking.